A group of enthusiasts and engineers is working to revive one of Britain's most iconic war aircraft, the Supermarine Spitfire, nearly 90 years after its first flight in 1936. The new model, dubbed the Aerolite Spitfire Type 433, has been developed using wartime plans but replaces traditional aluminium with a composite material called Gordon Aerolite.
The prototype, built for £750,000—significantly less than the £3 million needed for a classic Spitfire—was unveiled in Bodmin, Cornwall. Only a dozen original two-seater Spitfires remain operational. The new composite material is weather resistant, eliminating the need for hangar storage.
Jeremy Meeson, chief executive of Great British Supermarine Ltd, said: 'The moment is right to reimagine the Supermarine Spitfire because today’s materials, propulsion, and digital engineering finally let us evolve an icon without losing what made it exceptional.' He added that the design stays true to its 1940s lineage while introducing advanced composites, modern power systems, and intelligent avionics.
The project's backers hope to get the model flying within two and a half years. This summer, the Aerolite Spitfire will tour 10 air shows and military and motor festivals to gauge interest and attract investors. David Spencer Evans, former chairman of the Spitfire Society and Spitfire Heritage Trust, noted: 'Every red-blooded Brit has some affection for the Spitfire. It’s something beautiful.'
The original Spitfire became a defining symbol of the Second World War, playing a crucial role in the Battle of Britain. Meeson anticipates brisk progress towards full production, with significant interest from UK and international buyers and investors.
